The VDE application guide allows the operator to provide evidence that the technical safety of existing overhead lines is guaranteed in accordance with § 49, Law on energy management.
The legal principles of “Bestandsschutz” (continuance of existing reliability) remain unchanged.
Based on the generally acknowledged rules of technology differentiated reliability levels for supports are determined. The required reliability depends on the possible consequences of damage to objects that are situated in the hazard zone between the supports.
The VDE application guide describes procedures for determining the existing reliability of supports.